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photo:  Amber Hamilton

Featured Article

Patriotic Porch Perfection

Three Steps to Liven Up Your Porch for Summer - Fourth of July Style

Article by Amber Hamilton and Katrina Hammond

Photography by Amber Hamilton

Originally published in Ogden City Lifestyle

Show your patriotic pride with a festive, welcoming front porch full of summer charm. Whether hosting guests or relaxing on your rocker, these simple tips will help you style a star-spangled place.

Patriotic Basic Preparations:

  • American flag (standard or vintage-inspired)
  • Mini flags for planters and baskets
  • Stars-and-stripes throw pillow
  • Red, white, and blue blankets/throws

Rustic Foundations Preparations:

  • Wooden crates (various sizes)
  • Vintage ladder or step stool
  • Galvanized metal cans or buckets
  • Woven baskets (natural or whitewashed)

Greenery Preparations:

  • Faux or real potted grasses
  • Small boxwood shrubs (real or artificial)
  • Ferns or seasonal greenery
  • Potting soil (if using real plants)

Decor Accent Preparations:

  • Bunting or fabric garlands (red, white, and blue)
  • Lanterns or mason jars with LED candles
  • String lights (white or patriotic-colored)
  • Chalkboard or wooden sign with  July 4 message
  • Decorative stars (wood, metal, or fabric)

Craft Supplies (optional)

  • Burlap, ribbon or fabric strips
  • Paint (red, white, blue or metallic)
  • Glue gun and glue sticks
  • Scissors or craft knife

1.  Layer in the Stars and Stripes

Start with bold, Americana elements- flags, pillows, and throws.  A vintage-inspired flag makes a great focal point, especially draped beside the door to draw the eye.  Complement it by adding cozy touches with pillows and blankets using stars-and-stripes to add the patriotic charm.   

Design Tip:

Mix textures like cotton, burlap, and knits for depth, while keeping your palette red, white and blue.  

2.  Using Rustic Foundations

Ground your decor with rustic, repurposed items like wooden crates, ladders, or galvanized cans.  These earthy pieces contrast nicely with bright, bold and patriotic colors to create a welcoming and a  homey touch.  

Design tip:

Use crates or ladders to create vertical layers and avoid clutter.

3.  Add Greenery for Balance 

Soften bold colors with fresh or faux greenery--think grasses, ferns or trimmed boxwoods.  Display them in woven baskets, or old crates for a relaxed, summery vibe that feels fresh and vibrant.

Design Tip:

Keep the look clean, with simple, structured greens.  

Wrap It All Together:

A great July 4 porch balances bold color, texture, and greenery.  Layer elements thoughtfully, play with height, and keep it cohesive.  Add lanterns or string lights, for evening glow, pour some lemonade and enjoy a patriotic space that's both festive and inviting.  

For those looking to take their porch decor to the next level, turn to local designer, Amber Hamilton, owner of Pieces Furniture and Design.  With a flair for furniture fashion, Amber is known for her ability to keep lines neat while blending elegant with rustic charm.  Her thoughtfully curated store, reflects her signature style--timeless pieces that are both stylish and simple.  With years of experience and a deep passion for design, Amber helps clients create spaces that feel warm, welcoming, and beautifully balanced.  Visit Pieces Furniture to find that perfect accent piece or get inspired for your next home project. 

1.  Layered stars and stripes create a bold, cozy, focal point with classic patriotic charm.  

2. Rustic elements, such as crates and ladders, add charm and a vintage character to patriotic decor.

3.  Fresh greenery softens bold colors, adding balance, texture, and a vibrant touch of summer.

Amber Hamilton, owner of Pieces Furniture and Design, is known for her keen eye for clean lines and fearless out-of-the-box creativity.  Her showroom features high-end couches, pillows, rugs, dining room tables, and everything in between--elevating spaces with style, sophistication, and thoughtfully crafted comfort.

Businesses featured in this article